Senior Optum Data Science Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

What Impact You'll Have

We are seeking a Senior Data Scientist to support mission-driven analytic and modernization efforts across the Intelligence Community. This role leverages advanced analytics, automation, data modeling, visualization, and software development to solve complex intelligence and operational challenges. The ideal candidate is an experienced technical leader who can transform large, complex datasets into actionable intelligence, modernize analytic workflows, and develop scalable solutions that directly support enterprise decision-making and mission success.

What You'll Be Doing

As a Senior Data Scientist, you will develop advanced analytic solutions that transform complex intelligence data into meaningful insights for mission stakeholders. You will design and implement scalable data pipelines, automation strategies, and analytic processes that enable analysts to identify patterns, trends, and operational opportunities across large, diverse datasets. Working directly with intelligence professionals, you will apply data science techniques to solve challenging mission problems while improving the efficiency, repeatability, and rigor of analytic workflows.

You will leverage senior-level Python programming skills to build production-ready tools, automate manual processes, and develop reusable analytic capabilities. Your work will include designing compelling visualizations and dashboards that communicate complex findings in a clear, actionable manner, enabling mission partners to integrate data-driven insights into daily operations and strategic planning. As new requirements emerge, you will rapidly prototype and deploy solutions that support evolving customer needs.

Operating in a fast-paced, mission-focused environment, you will independently manage multiple concurrent projects while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams across the Intelligence Community. You will provide technical leadership in the application of modern data science practices, ensuring solutions are scalable, maintainable, and aligned with enterprise modernization initiatives. Through innovation and continuous improvement, you will help advance intelligence capabilities by transforming data into operational advantage.

What You Must Have

• Active TS/SCI clearance (ability to obtain a CI Poly preferred).
• Demonstrated experience supporting intelligence missions through data science, advanced analytics, or intelligence analysis.
• Ability to operate independently at a senior level with minimal oversight.
• Senior-level proficiency in Python and experience developing production-quality analytic applications and automation solutions.
• Demonstrated proficiency designing and implementing scalable processes for large, complex datasets to identify trends, patterns, and analytical discoveries.
• Experience developing data models, automation workflows, and repeatable analytic processes.
• Experience creating visualizations, dashboards, and data products that effectively communicate complex analytical findings and support operational decision-making.
• Experience managing multiple projects and technical initiatives simultaneously in a high-tempo operational environment.
• Strong understanding of data analysis, statistical methods, and data-driven problem solving.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Familiarity with common Intelligence Community (IC) data repositories.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with analysts, engineers, and mission stakeholders to deliver innovative solutions.
• Familiarity with geospatial data science, GEOINT workflows, or multi-INT analysis.

What Would Be Nice to Have

• Experience with additional programming languages or low-code/no-code platforms such as JEMA, Brewlytics, or ArcGIS ModelBuilder.
• Experience developing enterprise-level dashboards and data visualization solutions using modern business intelligence tools.
• Experience applying machine learning or artificial intelligence techniques to intelligence problems.
• Experience working with cloud-based data platforms and distributed computing environments.
• Experience mentoring junior data scientists or leading technical modernization initiatives.
• Knowledge of DevSecOps principles and modern software development practices.